Coney Island’s infamous sand sculpting contest returns on Aug. 12 for its 31st annual celebration.
Families will head down to the Riegelmann Boardwalk to see who can build the most impressive sand creations. Winners will take home a $250 cash prize in four categories: family, individual adult, adult group, and the people’s choice.
The free, public event is hosted by Alliance for Coney Island, the neighborhood’s head advocacy group and Brooklyn Community Services, a borough-based non-profit.
According to Daniel Murphy, executive director of the alliance, the sand competition is one of the area’s most underrated events.
“The most wonderful part about it is probably the interactive nature of it and the fact that it captures so many imaginations,” he told Brooklyn Paper.
Janelle Farris, executive director of BCS, said her and her team enjoy playing a role in keeping the peninsula’s rich history alive.
“The sand sculpting contest has been going on for 30 years and it really has become kind of a part of the mystique that is Coney Island,” she said. “We’ve become partners in a desire to represent the fixtures and the cultures that are a part of Brooklyn and New York City.”
Along with all the entertainment, rides, and restaurants the area has to offer, Farris said this competition gives locals a chance to get creative and enjoy some fun in the sun.
“The goal is for people to come out and have a good time,” Farris told Brooklyn Paper. “To bring families together in a fun and competitive way.”
The event is known for bringing out tons of sand artists who spend hours building castles, statues and mermaids.
Last year, over 3,000 participants gathered on the boardwalk between Stillwell Ave. and West 12th St. to ogle at the beach masterpieces.
To participate, register onsite on the day of the contest starting at 11 a.m. The event will be from 12 until 4 p.m. on the beach at West 12th St.
